Santa Climbs the Chimney Rock this weekend

December 3 and 10 from 11 AM to 2 PM visit Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park to see Santa climbing on one of the world’s largest chimneys at 315 feet tall. Guests also have an opportunity to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, enjoy live holiday music, complimentary hot cocoa, cookies and kids’ activities and see the Park's live critters.

Annual Passholders are invited to a special holiday sale with 25% off their total retail purchase both days at Cliff Dwellers Gifts which will be providing entertainment, artist demonstrations and refreshments. There is no additional cost with paid Park admission. Guests who upgrade their admissions to Annual Passes are also eligible. In case of inclement weather, check chimneyrockpark.com for the event’s status.

“Santa has a challenging job climbing down millions of chimneys Christmas Eve, so he practices to be ready for it,” said Matt Popowski, PR and Events Coordinator, Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park. “It’s just as entertaining as it sounds and a fun way to kick off your holiday traditions for kids and adults!”

 

Details of Santa's Climb:  Mr. Claus will rappel from the top of Chimney Rock about every 30-45 minutes from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. while spectators gather in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts for live holiday music, refreshments and kids’ activities. Between noon and 1:30 p.m., Santa will be available in front of Cliff Dwellers Gifts for photo opportunities and to meet the children. Mrs. Claus will be present also, serving delicious cookies and hot cocoa while visiting with children. Park mascot Grady the Groundhog or other live critters will make an appearance for kids, and an educational display of animal skins and skulls will be on display by a State Park Ranger.

On December 3, live music will be provided by Joe Collins, award-winning vocalist, songwriter and national champion mountain dulcimer performer. John Mason, who has toured the Southeast for 30 years playing the hammered dulcimer and is the Park’s featured musician, will be performing on December 10. The event is being co-sponsored by Coffee on the Rocks in Chimney Rock Village.

 

Hours, Admission & Trail Changes: Current seasonal hours are daily 8:30 AM to 6 PM. with the Ticket Plaza closing at 4:30 PM. Park admission is $12 for adults, $5 for youth ages 6-15 and free for ages 5 and under. On December 5, winter hours go into effect. The Park will be open Thursday – Monday, weather permitting, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. with the Ticket Plaza closing at 4:30 p.m. Winter admission, effective Dec. 5, will be $9 for adults and $4 for youth ages six through 15. Children under six are admitted free.

Starting Dec. 5, due to winter capital improvements, the Outcroppings and Skyline trails, Chimney and points of interest above, such as the Opera Box, Devil’s Head and Exclamation Point, will be closed to the public.

 

Adult Annual Passes, a great stocking stuffer for family and friends, will be available for $20 during a holiday special November 25 to December 24, 2011. Guests who visit the Park during discounted winter admission rates can save money by upgrading their admission tickets to Annual Passes for only $11 for adults and $4 for youth (ages 6-15) within 30 days of purchase. Buy your upgrade online, call 800-277-9611 or show your receipt at the Ticket Plaza on your next visit within 30 days.

Chimney Rock at Chimney Rock State Park is a developing international outdoor destination located 25 miles southeast of Asheville on Highway 64/74A in Chimney Rock, N.C. It is recognized as one of the Southeast’s most iconic sites and popular travel destinations. The Park’s 535-million-year-old monolith called Chimney Rock offers guests 75-mile panoramic views of Hickory Nut Gorge and Lake Lure. Hickory Nut Gorge, one of the state’s most significant centers of biodiversity, is home to 36 rare plant species and 14 rare animal species, and the second highest waterfall of its kind in the eastern United States. A destination for travel groups, weddings and special events, the Park also hosts innovative educational programs for schools, homeschoolers, scouts and summer camps.

Get Chimney Rock NC visitor information for lodging and other attractions HERE

Last Minute Cabins and Rentals: Spend Christmas in the NC Mountains

Spend Christmas in the NC Mountains this year and make a special memory by a cozy fire. The mountain towns still celebrate a slower paced, old-fashioned Christmastime with twinkling lights and evening strolls. You can still find availability for a variety of cabins and vacation rentals located throughout the western North Carolina mountains. Check out the rentals below or get our complete list here.

Contemporary Cabin nestled in Pisgah Forest - 4 bedrooms, 4 baths, sleeps up to 10. Wrap-around deck with short range wooded mountain views. Free-standing wood fireplace, gas grill, WIFI. Located in Barnardsville, just south of Mars Hill. $150-$210 night, $1000-$1200 week.   Cabin photos and availability calendar

Peaceful wooded setting in convenient location - 1 bedroom, 1 bath, sleeps up to 4. Modern chalet style rental with deck, gas grill, HDTV, WIFI and loft. Walk to the Mountains to Sea Trail access or drive a few minutes to the Parkway. 5 minutes to downtown Asheville. $140 night, $799 week.  See photos and rental details


Modern mountain cabin with pristine views - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 8. Fireplace, hot tub, grill, Internet, Pet Friendly. 4X4 needed for steep driveway. Located on the outskirts of Asheville about 20 minutes to downtown. $1317 per week. Confirm rental availability

Authentic modern log cabin - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 8. Peaceful wooded setting in 78 acres with hiking trails, waterfalls. Hot tub, covered deck with gas grill, wood-burning fireplace, WIFI, picnic table, campfire ring.  Located 15 minutes to Boone or Wilkesboro. $215 night, $1075 week. See cabin photos and details

Romantic mountain getaway - 1 bedroom, 1 bath, sleeps 2. Cuddle up by the fireplace and enjoy the mountain view. Hot tub, deck with grill, whirlpool bathtub. Pet Friendly. Community activities including horseback riding, fishing, seasonal pool, walking trails, biking.  See cabin photos and availability

BIG vacation home with BIG views - 7 bedrooms, 5 baths, sleeps up to 17. Gourmet kitchen, fireplaces, gameroom with pool table, jukebox, pinball, video arcade games, 9 HDTVs, WIFI, large hot tub. 180 degree mountain views.   $375 - $425 night, $2400 - $2795 week.   Confirm rental availability

Christmas Art and Crafts this weekend in Asheville

December 3   Asheville Downtown Galleries Walk  Take a self-guided tour and explore the diversity of art in downtown Asheville.The December Galleries Walk is especially festive and a great opportunity to find unique Christmas gifts. Handmade gifts are treasured for a lifetime, not just the current fashion's season. Browse 25 Galleries in Asheville's downtown decorated with this year's "old fashioned Christmas" theme.

December   3, 10   Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale at the Folk Art Center     Members of the Southern Highland Craft Guild will be on  hand in the center’s auditorium  to sell select work at 10-50% off retail. Guild Membership is considered acknowledgement of the highest level of art and craft in the Southeast. The Annual Holiday sale is an opportunity to purchase high quality works, a value at any price. The event is held at the Folk Art Center located at Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway in Asheville NC

NC Christmas Events: Christmas at Hendersonville's Historic Johnson Farm

December  - 1  Christmas at Historic Johnson Farm.  Christmas at the Farm will take you on a nostalgic trip into Christmas past with a tour of the1880s brick farmhouse decorated for the season and filled with original period furniture and hand-made toys. The paved trail from the Visitor Center to the Farmhouse will be lined with Christmas trees lavishly decorated with unique hand-made ornaments created by students from each of Hendersonville’s schools.

Get a link for Christmas at Johnson Farm and other Hendersonville attractions, lodging and information.

Christmas Event: Flat Rock Playhouse Presents Two Special Christmas Music Programs

November 30 - Dec 22    "Plaid Tidings" at the Flat Rock Playhouse   Flat Rock Playhouse season finale "Plaid Tidings. In this " The "Forever Plaid" sequel, the boys are back to do their Christmas special for the whole family. With heavenly voices and harmonies blending seamless from Pop to Christmas Standards, this performance will be one of your favorite Christmas presents. Wed, Thurs Sat.& Sun 2PM; Wed-Sat 8PM on the Mainstage at 2661 Greenville Highway  Flat Rock, NC

Holiday Special Deal: Purchase a ticket for Plaid Tidings and get 20% off your Home for the Holidays ticket

December 5 - 22   "Home for the Holidays" is presented in a Two-act concert with humor, warmth and high-spirited yuletide excitement. You can expect a new look at old holiday standards sprinkled with a handpicked selection of new material by contemporary composers and lyricists. An audience participation number, a few historical carols with a twist and a novelty number or two reflecting current views of the holiday will add variety and freshness to the traditional favorites. 8 PM performance times with matinees at 2 PM wed and Sat.   Performed at the NEW DOWNTOWN VENUE, 125 South Main Street in Hendersonville NC.

Get a link for the Flat Rock Playhouse and other Flat Rock NC attractions here. Find information about Hendersonville NC HERE 

Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts present the Nutcracker

Nov 27    The Nutcracker performed at the Smoky Mountain Center for the performing Arts   More than 40 beautiful Russian dancers perform to Tchaikovsky's famous music, in this holiday favorite.  200 lavish costumes, larger-than-life puppets and nine hand painted backdrops with 3D effects add to the exciting experience.The Smoky Mountain Center for the Performing Arts is located at 1028 Georgia Road in Franklin NC

Black Friday Vacation Rental Deal: FREE Night AND 2 Ski Tickets

An Unbeatable Black Friday Deal: Pay for two nights, stay for three - PLUS free skiing at Wolf Ridge Ski Resort!

Carolina Mornings is offering an unbeatable deal this Black Friday: Make a reservation for 2 nights at a luxury vacation rental by November 30th and get a free bonus night. Plus, you'll also get 2 free lift tickets at Wolf Ridge Resort.

Vacation Planners are ready to assist you in finding the perfect vacation rental home for your  NC mountain getaway. Reserve any of our properties for at least two nights anytime between Black Friday (November 25th, 2011) and February 29th, 2012, and you'll receive a free extra night at your vacation rental home. Plus, you'll want to get out and enjoy all the fun that the mountains have to offer, so two complimentary ski lift passes at Wolf Ridge Ski Resort are included, a $108.00 value.

Make your Reservations by NOVEMBER 30 to participate

Call the Vacation Planners toll free at (877) 882-8310 to experience a winter-time getaway at one of Carolina Mornings' premiere luxury vacation rentals.

Simplify: Experience the Luxury of the Mountains! Disclaimers:

• Only for new reservations made on or after November 25th
• Prohibited for use on properties requiring 3 + night minimum stays
• Not applicable during the Christmas or New Year Holiday period

Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgivings Weekend Art and Crafts Events

Nov 25   BREVARD   4th Friday Gallery Walks  An evening of Art, Wine and Food in Downtown Brevard every 4th Friday of the month, from May through December. 5 PM -9 PM
Nov 25-26   CULLOWHEE   24th Annual Hard Candy Christmas   Annual art and craft show  held in the Ramsey Center at Western Carolina University. The event includes all varieties of media for show and sale along with demonstrations in blacksmithing, chain saw carving, pastel painting and more. 

Nov 25-26   FRANKLIN   Mistletoe Magic Holiday  Arts and Crafts Show Explore booth after booth of authentic mountain crafts.

Nov 25-26   SPARTA   Magnum Pottery Open House and Sale   Watch one of the area’s well known potters, Rob Mangum, at work in his Turkey Knob studio and take advantage of the open house specials - just in time for holiday gift-giving. .

Nov 25 - 26   Stecoah Valley Area   Annual Artisans Drive-About Tour in Stecoah -    Visit local artists' studios and galleries and see pottery, original art, a working candle making studio and the Stecoah Gallery featuring a variety of local artisans. Great holiday gift ideas!

Nov 25-26   HIGHLANDS   Artists' Marketplace at the Dave Drake Studio Barn - Featuring a gathering of artist tables, the marketplace is the ideal place to find unique, affordable, one-of-a-kind artists' works for Christmas, hostess and New Year's gifts

 
Nov 26 LAKE LURE The Lake Lure Artists present "Christmas at the Inn" 10 AM - 4 PM, The "Gardens" Building at the 1927 Lake Lure Inn, 64-74A, across from the beach in Lake Lure NC. Shop for Christmas by browsing through a selection of Original Paintings, Drawings, Photography, Prints, Fine Crafts, Jewelry, Pottery and Sculpture. Each artist is donating an item to be raffled."

Nov 26   BLOWING ROCK   Thanksgiving Kiln Opening at Traditions Pottery Studio   Be present at 10:00 a.m. to watch us unload the wood kiln, and them make your selection. Items in the wood kiln will include work from Bolick’s and from Traditions. With face jugs such as Santas, wizards and cry babies, Rebekah pitchers, candlesticks, sculpted chickens, and other traditional wares. Food will be served. Free admission.

Nov 26   HENDERSONVILLE   Curb Market Old Timey Christmas    includes refreshments, music, carriage rides, holiday gifts and arts & crafts. Come visit the South's most unique Curb Market. All items sold at the market must be either handmade or locally grown.       

Thanksgiving Eve Marathon WIne Tasting in Asheville

Nov 23, 11 AM - 7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102 in Asheville NC. FREE pre-Thanksgiving wine tasting to help pick your holiday feast wine parings. Table Wine has become a community gathering place in South Asheville and Thanksgiving Eve is no exception. The shop will host an all day, FREE wine tasting of 8 assorted wines.

The tasting gets under way right when the doors open and will run until closing  at 7:00 PM.  2 bottles of each of the eight wines will be opened with  60 to 70 pours of each wine. You'll have to attend the event to find out what wines are being tasted, but to tease your tastebuds,  one of the wines was described by famed wine critic Robert Parker as "one of the best Cotes du Rhones I've ever tried". All wines will also be offered by the glass.

Last,Last Minute Thanksgiving Cabin at Sugar Mountain

Sugar Mountain Cabin with beautiful views - 3 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sleeps up to 6. Views of Beech and Sugar Mountains, open deck with rockers, covered deck with swing, fireplace, WIFI, 2-car garage.   

 Confirm cabin availability and see photos

Christmas Tree Packages from Cashiers - Sapphire Valley Inn

Jingle Package - $193* - 1 Night stay, Thur – Sun, in the Hampton Inn & Suites – Cashiers/Sapphire Valley and Special Full Access to Tom Sawyer Christmas Tree and Elf Village for a Family of 4. Package Includes up to a 6’ Fraser Fir Christmas Tree – Choose n’ Access to the Elf Village with Santa, Elves, and the Christmas Store Tractor Pulled Hayride or Horse Drawn Carriage ride (based on availability - additional fee for the Hayride or Carriage ride) Visit the Farm and Village one day on Friday, Saturday, Sunday or Monday. PLUS Special Gift Package from the Sapphire Valley General Store.  You must sign up at  wwww.Hampton.SapphireValley.com   and receive your special instructions.


Jangle Package - $114* - Stay one night (any night) in the Hampton Inn & Suites – Cashiers/Sapphire Valley Receive $5.00 off your Choose ‘n Cut Tree of any size.  Visit the Tom Sawyer Christmas Tree Farm and Elf Village for Choose n Cut, the Christmas Store and more on any day – Elf Village services vary and fees may apply for events.  Special Gift Package from the Sapphire Valley General Store.  You must sign up at: wwww.Hampton.SapphireValley.com to receive your instructions.

Annual Artisans Drive-About in Stecoah Valley this weekend

November 25 - 26    Annual Artisans Drive-About Tour in Stecoah -    Visit local artists' studios and galleries and see pottery, original art, a working candle making studio and the Stecoah Gallery featuring a variety of local artisans. Make your Holiday gift-giving special this year with unique hand made art and crafts.

Studios open for tour include: Bee Global Studio Gallery, Creative Impulses “The Little Art Studio", Coffee & Clay, Mill Creek Pottery & Gallery, Mill Creek Pottery & Gallery, TJ's Flamework Glass Studio, Yellow Branch Pottery & Cheese.

Hours: 10 AM - 5 PM. both days. A special holiday lunch will be served in the Schoolhouse Cafe both days. Free admission.

Get a link for The Stecoah Gallery and other
Robbinsville and Stecoah Valley attractions and information HERE

Fontana Village Offers FREE Night and Thanksgiving Festival

Fontana Village Resort has announced its "Snuggle up in the Smokies" promotion: Stay one Night and receive a complimentary second night FREE.  You must mention "Winter Special" offer when making your reservations. The offer is based on availability with Holidays and black out day excluded - advanced reservations required.

Fontana's Thanksgiving Family Festival is November 23-27 and includes: an old-fashioned Thanksgiving Dinner, Square dancing with Bill Nichols, Mountain crafting and basket weaving classes, guided hikes, Filed Games, live music and Hayrides.

Fontana Village Resort - offers a range of accommodations: Lodge rooms and suites, cabins. RV & tent camping. Amenities include conference space, WIFI, 2 restaurants, lounge, General Store, gift shops, outfitters, pools, marina, massage and fitness center, bike shop, horseback riding, trails.

Get current lowest rates for Fontana Village lodging

Learn more about Robbinsville NC HERE

Classic Car Show this Weekend in Old Fort

November 19   Classic Car Show  Bring your car, truck, or motorcycle. Downtown Old Fort, 1-5 p.m.; free. Sponsored by Route 70 Cruisers. For more information, call 828-442-5135

Old Fort Cruise-Ins are now held on the 3rd Saturday of each month, weather permitting. The event is held on Railroad Strett at the Gazebo in "Downtown" Old Fort.

Asheville's Folk Art Center hosts 16th Tellebration

Nov 20    Tellabration! at the Folk Art Center   Experience an International celebration when thousands of people around the world gather in small towns and big cities to celebrate storytelling. The Asheville Storytelling Circle hosts the local event, now in its 16th year, held the last weekend before Thanksgiving at the Folk Art Center.

The outstanding  line-up  showcases accomplished storytellers, and features the well-known Charleston, SC, performer, Tim Lowry, renowned for telling stories "Of the People, By the People, and For the People."   Asheville Storytelling Circle members: Sherry Lovett, Nancy Reeder, Ed Sacco will also tell their tales and Wayne Sims will serve as Emcee.

 

General Admission is $5 with proceeds enabling area storytelling events and activities.  Tickets are sold on a first-come, first-serve basis, and are available at the door on the day of the event.

Get a link for Tellabration and other
Asheville NC events, lodging and information HERE

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, November 17

Nov 17,  5 PM - 7 PM, Brusin' Ales, 65 Broadway Street, Asheville NC    Tasting & Meet-n-Greet with  Stephen Hill, Mother Earth Brewing -  sampling the whole line-up, including cans! Taste Endless River, Sunny Haze, Weeping Willow Wit and Dark Cloud and more.

Nov 19  4 PM - 8 PM Appalachian Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place, Asheville NC "Asheville's Best Free Wine Tasting" - an enormous Thanksgiving Wine Tasting. Multiple courses will be served with each course will be perfectly paired with selection of carefully chosen handcrafted wines that just beg for a spot on your families holiday table. Food will be hand-made by Chefs, Shelton Friesland and Michelle Alexander (Chef at Sunny Point Cafe). Cost is $5 per person or free with the purchase of a case.

Nov 18, 5 PM - 7 PM Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville NC.  Duck Rabbit Brewing - The weather is quickly turning cold, so now is a great time to pick up some darker style beers from Duck Rabbit Brewing, the dark beer specialists! The Duck-Rabbit Brown Ale ; The Duck-Rabbit Porter; The Duck-Rabbit Milk Stout. Nov 19, 3 PM - 6 PM Free Wine Tasting:
Joseph Drouhin Wines, Just released Beaujolais Nouveau - oseph Drouhin "La Foret" Chardonnay 2010- Laforet is a classic Chardonnay from Burgundy; Joseph Drouhin Beaujolais Nouveau 2011- Beaujolais is a region at the base of the greater region of Burgundy in France; Jopseph Drouhin Beaujolais-Village 2009- Beaujolais-Villages is from the same region and made from the same grape as it's younger sister Nouveau.

Nov 23, 11 Am - 7 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, AAA Travel Center in Asheville NC. Pre-Thanksgiving Tasting - undisclosed wines will be poured all day! FREE - find out what works best with your Thanksgiving Dinner. Regular tastings this Friday, 11-18 from 4 PM - 7 PM and Saturday, 11-19 from 2 PM - 5PM.

Now through - Dec 31 - Deck the Halls  - 13 Surry County wineries and several local hotels and restaurants are participating in the 2nd annual event. Purchase a Deck the Halls passport, from November 12 through December 31 and receive complementary wine tastings from all 13 participating Surry Wineries, a collectable holiday ornament from each winery, a commemorative wine glass, invitation to 2 food & wine pairing weekends with live music, plus other great events at Surry Wineries during the holiday season.

Thanksgiving Weekend through December 31 - Yadkin River Wine Trail is once again hosting its Holiday Wine Tour. Visit five wineries: RagApple Lassie, Sanders Ridge, Divine Llama, Cellar 4201 and Flint Hill for the price of one ticket. Included is the tasting of five wines and a signature collector's ornament from each winery. $40.00 per couple or $30.00 individually. Tickets are available at each of the wineries and can be reserved by calling any of the wineries direct.

Nov 18, 7-10 PM at The Classic Wineseller, 30 church Street, Waynesville NC. Friday Night Live - Now inside the Wine Bar for the winter. This week enjoy Jared Teague.

Nov 12 at 1- 4 PM  Asheville Wine Market, 65 Biltmore Ave, Asheville NC. Free WIne Tasting: Join Bill O'Friel for an informative tasting of four outstanding, and very affordable, hand-picked South African wine selections.2009 Kanu Chenin Blanc; Stellenbosch, South Africa; 2010 Ken Forrester Reserve Chenin Blanc; Stellenbosch, South Africa; 2010 Ken Forrester Petit Pinotage; Western cape, South Africa; 2010 Indaba Merlot, Western Cape, South Africa.

Nov 18, 6 PM - 8 PM, at Divine Wine, 1011 Tunnel Road East Asheville NC . Friday Wine Tastings - complimentary tastes of special wines and beer, along with an assortment of hors d’oeuvres. Each week we celebrate with a different theme and a few surprises.

Nov 18,  4 PM - 7 PM LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday. The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.

Nov 19 12 PM - 6 PM RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC - Listen to popular vocalist, Lisa Woods, visit with friends, relax, have lunch in The Back Door Cafe, sample RagApple's great wines, and check out the RagApple Lassie special collection of great holiday gifts.

Nov 19,  2 PM - 5 PM The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. Every week we sample 4 to 6 new wines. Light hors d’ oeuvres will be served and all wines poured will be specially priced.

Nov 19, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.

Nov 18 , 4 PM - 8 PM  PM at Falderal Winery, 131 3rd Ave, Hendersonville NC.   Beaujolais Nouveau and limited-run Thanksgiving wines plus hors d'oeuvres. Nov 19   Free tasting -  Regular Saturday wine Tasting from 11 AM - 5 PM.

Nov 9-13   South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC. Pre-Thanksgiving Open House - Relax while you Taste 6 Premium Wines at our bar, and then select the wine for your Thanksgiving feast. Check out the 3-Pack Wine special for $49.50.

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

Last Minute Thanksgiving Getaways

Vacation home with golf course view - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 6. Sun porch and deck overlooking the golf course, fireplace, satellite TV, Internet, fully furnished and equipped for a week or a full season. $1395 week, $2495 Month.                                  Click for details


Vacation Condo overlooking Sugar Slopes - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 6. Beautiful long range mountain views overlooking the Ski slopes. Deck, Fireplace, HDTV with Blueray. Slope access from the bottom of the complex, Reserve II. $165 - $250 night, $1050 week.     Click for details
              

 Beautiful Long-range view in peaceful setting -   4 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps 10. 5 acre wooded setting with nearby waterfall. Minutes to Lake Lure, Chimney Rock and Attractions. Ping-pong, grill, Internet. $195-$225 night, $1100 - $1300 week.                   Click for details


The Cabins at Long Branch  40 acres of private mountain wilderness with trout stream, secluded but close to activities. 2 bd cabins-each sleeps six, Full kitchen, fireplace, central H&A, handcrafted furnishings, deck with rockers, grill, motorcycle accessible. $125 nt (through 9-30), $750 week.    Click for details


Enjoy Urban Asheville from a downtown loft - 2 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 5. Upscale furnishings and decor with original art, gas fireplace, WIFI.  Located in the true "heart" of Asheville. $225-$275 night, $1550-$1700 week 
                  Click for details


Peace and quiet 2 miles to Highlands - 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, sleeps up to 6. Open deck with wooded mountain view, stone wood-burning fireplace, gas grill, split bedrooms all on one level, Internet, Pet Friendly. $250 night, $1300 week 
                 Click for details


Vacation apartment walk to Biltmore Village - 2 bedrooms, 1 bath sleeps 4. Duplex 2-story rental with flat screen TV, WIFI, neat and comfy. Easy walk to Biltmore village restaurants, shops. 10 minute drive to downtown Asheville. $85 night, $560 week.    Click for details

The Christmas Season begins in the Mountains

It's always magical in the NC mountains, but with the addition of twinkling lights, holiday wrappings, lively parades and even the jolly old man himself, the magic in the mountains is like no other. This weekend many of the mountain cities begin their holiday seasons:

Nov16 - Jan 1   ASHEVILLE    19th Century Carolina Christmas   Celebrate Christmas the old-fashioned way. The Smith-McDowell House Museum's time-line of authentically decorated period rooms showcase the evolution of Christmas celebrations and decorations.

Nov 18   MURPHY   The Murphy Hometown Christmas Celebration begins at 6 PM Friday with a tree lighting ceremony, music and entertainment. Shopping day will be Saturday, November 19th, complete with Santa strolling around town and merchants offering incentives to shoppers such as sales, snacks, etc

Nov 19   WEST JEFFERSON   Annual Holiday Parade   Annual holiday parade through downtown West Jefferson featuring the Ashe County High School band and Santa on an antique fire engine.
19   ASHEVILLE   The 65th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade will be at 11:00 AM. This year’s parade theme —“Days Gone By” — pays respect to the history of the Asheville community and to times past when life was less fast paced, as well as the best memories shared by all of Christmas and other seasonal holidays of the past.

Nov 19   ANDREWS   Andrews Community Tree Lighting   The fun begins at 6 PM - lighted "car-truck", Scooby-Doo Mystery Machine, music by the Andrews High Jazz Band, Christmas carols and Santa.

Nov 20   MARION   Marion Christmas Parade   Annual event marking the beginning of the Christmas season.

Nov 20    WAYNESVILLE   Holiday Open House   A Holiday Tradition on Main Street. Enjoy the sights, scents & sounds as the holiday season begins in our festively decorated shops and galleries. Noon-4pm

Get links and more information on our Event Calender

"Real" Political Debate at the Dianna Wortham Theatre

Novmeber 16 - 17, 8 PM, Diana Wortham Theatre, 2 S. Pack Square • Asheville, NC - The Rivalry.  L.A. Theatre Works comes to Asheville with Norman Corwin's acclaimed portrayal of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates of the 1858 Illinios Senate race - a riveting time in America's history as the country steamrolled towards an enormous and costly war and struggled with issues of race, social and economic inequity, states' rights, and the "proper" role of the federal government in the lives of its citizens.

 

The Rivalry is also a stunning testament to the willingness of Lincoln and Douglas to put aside their differences and "reach across the aisle" for the good of the country - a painful yet powerful reminder of what is missing in the partisan politics we see today.

 

The cast* includes seasoned actors from television, screen and theatre: Josh Clark (TV's "Heroes," "Start Trek Voyager"); Robert Parsons (TV's "Nash Bridges" plus stage credits worldwide); Rebecca Mozo (TV's "Cold Case," "Medium"); and Diane Adair ("Happy Days" and "Babylon 5" on TV plus numerous stage appearences). Greensboro, NC native Shannon Cochran directs the superb cast.

 

Pre-show discussions will be lead by Charlie Metcalf, teacher of United States History, Civics, and Current Affairs at Asheville High School, in The Forum at Pack Place at 7:00pm each evening prior to the performances. Free for ticket holders.

Asheville's 65th Annual Holiday Parade this Weekend

November 19    The 65th Annual Asheville Holiday Parade will begin at 11:00 AM. This year’s parade theme, Days Gone By”, is a celebration of the history of the Asheville community and its memorable past parade. Revisit  times past when life was less fast paced and relive some of the best memories shared by all of Christmas and other seasonal holidays of the past.
As usual there will be many creative entries - the pervasive spirit of creativity in Asheville is ever present.  The judges’ scoring will be based on creativity, entertainment factors and best use of the parade's theme. Prizes will be awarded in a number of categories.

While you're in downtown Asheville be sure to check out the Holiday window displays by downtown merchants. This year's display competition includes cash prizes and judging will be based on originality and creativity, use of space, use of merchandise and general "wow" factor. Many will also incorporate the "Days Gone By" theme, although it is not required.

Get a link for Asheville's Holiday Parade and other
Asheville NC events, lodging and information HERE.

National Gingerbread House Competition and Display begins this week in Asheville

November 16 - Jan 2   National Gingerbread House Competition and Display   The Grove Park Inn Resort & Spa hosts the 19th annual National Gingerbread House Competition™ . No holiday season would be complete without a trip to The Grove Park Inn to see this festive and creative display.




The Competition includes Contestants from across the country bringing  their culinary masterpieces to popular annual event. Viewers will delight in the imagination shown in these sugar-and-spice creations. A stroll through  the competition display is a sure way to be swept up in the holiday spirit.  Several of this year's entries will be featured on ABC's Good Morning America on the morning of Friday, December 23rd!

Community Viewing Days are  Sunday-Thursday only. Resort Guests may view the display at anytime and may also now spend a full day of gingerbread fun with new on-site activities, topped off with a visit to Grove Park's award-winning holiday brunch buffet at The Blue Ridge Dining Room. Hour-long tours offered Wed. - Sun., 9am and 3pm Nov. 18, 2011 - Jan. 1, 2012.   Adults: $12, Children: 12 & under $6. Advance reservations are required  by calling 800-438-5800.

Get a link for the Gingerbread House Competition and other

Asheville NC events, Lodging and information HERE.

Taste of Asheville Fund Raiser includes 37 Restaurants

November 17, 7 PM - 9 PM - Asheville’s premier food event, the Taste of Asheville, will be held at The Venue at 21 North Market Street. This highly anticipated annual fund raising event, held by the members of Asheville Independent Restaurants (AIR), will feature food from 37 restaurants as well as wine tasting and beer tasting from local breweries.

The 2012 AIR passport will also be kicked off as a part of the evening's events. The AIR Passport program offers discounts at many of Asheville’s top restaurants while encouraging passport holders to try new restaurants. A portion of the proceeds from the evening and the sale of the Passports will go to benefit AIR’s “Chefs of Tomorrow” scholarship at AB Tech. Tickets for the event are $70 for a single ticket and $125 for a pair.

Get a link for Taste of Asheville and other
Asheville NC events, lodging and information HERE

Cataloochee Ski Area Now Open for the 2011-2012 Season

Thanks to a sudden cold snap this week, temperatures dropped and an enthusiastic crew at Cataloochee Ski Area cranked up the snow machines. The combination of freezing temperatures and hard work has allowed Cataloochee to open for skiing this weekend - the first of the NC Ski slopes for the 2011-2012 season. 

Special: $25 lift ticket, with regular rental rates. Midweek season passes are valid this weekend. Cataloochee will be closed Monday - Friday and reopen Saturday Nov. 19th with the regular early season schedule

Hours: Saturday & Sunday 8:30AM-4:30PM, Closed for the week.

Runs: Lower Omigosh, Easy Way, Rabbit Hill, Beginners Luck

Lifts: Easy Way, Omigosh to Mid-Station


Cataloochee Ski Area is located in the heart of Maggie Valley NC. The first Ski area to open in the North Carolina Mountains, Cataloochee begins its 51st year of operation in the 2011-2012 ski season. The Ski area offers 16 lighted slopes including the Cat Cage Terrain Parkand a variety of terrain for beginners to experts.

Get more information about Cataloochee Ski Area and other
Maggie Valley NC attractions, lodging and information HERE.

Holiday Bazaar at Marion's Historic Carson House

November 12    Historic Carson House Holiday Bazaar - Historic Carson House Holiday Bazaar will be held at St. John’s Episcopal Church Parish House,  289 S. Main Street,  from 9:00AM until 4:00 PM. Purchase unusual, and sometimes rare, handmade gifts. Items include baked goods, gift bags and boxes, decorated trees and wreaths, ornaments, gift tags, gift items for the "special men" in your life, home decorations and jewelry. 

Get more Marion NC events, lodging and information HERE

Chimney Rock Park honors Veterans with Free Visits

Veterans, reservists and active military personnel are our heroes, so we’d like to honor your service with a free visit to Chimney Rock anytime from November 7-11. Must present military ID or proof of service. Special offer only valid for past and current military personnel.

Click here to download this special coupon. Coupon must be presented to the Ticket Plaza at the time of purchase. Valid only November 7-11, 2011.

Get more information about Chimney Rock and Chimney Rock Park HERE.

Veterans' Day Special at The Flat Rock Cinema

November 11 - The Flat Rock Cinema is saying a heartfelt thanks to Veterans  with free popcorn and a free drink on Veterans Day.  The Big Year,  with Steve Martin, Owen Wilson and Jack Black, begins on 11-11-11 with shows at 4 PM and 7 PM.  Three obsessive bird watchers compete to spot and record the highest number of species in 1998-when El Nino brought an unprecedented number of species to North America. During their competition, they come to realize that winning isn't everything.

The Flat Rock Cinema is a fun and friendly bistro cinema great food, cocktails and local brews located at 2700 Greenville Highway in Flat Rock NC.  Get a link for the Cinema and other Flat Rock attractions, lodging and information HERE.

Mountain Spirits: Wine and Beer this week, November 10

Nov 12, 3 PM - 7 PM   Appalachian Vintner, 2-B Huntsman Place,  Asheville NC  "Asheville's Best Free Wine Tasting" - wines from Australia. West Cape Howe WineryIronberry Chardonnay-Viognier; Ballast Stone Steeple Jack Merlot; Hope Estate Hunter Valley Shiraz; Ballast Stone Petit Verdot.

Nov 11, 5 PM - 7 PM  Hops and Vines, 797 Haywood Rd, Ste 100 in Asheville N   Free rare Dogfish Beer tasting - Come check out some of these allocated releases from Dogfish Head this Friday. These beers won't be around for long so come get a taste and pick up a bottle while you can. Namaste; Faithfull Ale; Hellhound on my Ale.   Nov 12, 3 PM - 6 PM Free Wine Tasting: Italian Reds - Melini Chianti Borghi D'Elsa 2010- Melini, a cherished Italian estate founded in 1705, is a pioneer for introducing to the world wines that embody the essence of Tuscany. Borghi D'elsa is a fresh, medium bodied Chianti with attractive bright red fruit aromas of Raspberry and cherry; Cusumano Nero d'Avola 2010- Nero d'Avola is the most widely planted of Sicily's indigenous reds and Cusumano's is grown near the heart of the island.

Nov 11,  7 PM - 9 PM at Table Wine, 1550 Hendersonville Road, Suite 102, AAA Travel Center in Asheville NC. Wines for the Holiday Dinner Table - a tasting of 20+ wines FREE - a grand tasting of some of our top picks for the holiday dinner table. There will be light appetizers from Earth Fare, smiling faces and a wide assortment of whites and reds from all over the globe for you to try before you buy. NO RSVP required and it's free to everyone.

Nov 12 - Dec 31 - Deck the Halls  - 13 Surry County wineries and several local hotels and restaurants are participating in the 2nd annual event. Purchase a Deck the Halls passport, from November 12 through December 31 and receive complementary wine tastings from all 13 participating Surry Wineries, a collectable holiday ornament from each winery, a commemorative wine glass, invitation to 2 food & wine pairing weekends with live music, plus other great events at Surry Wineries during the holiday season.

Nov 11, 7-10 PM at The Classic Wineseller, 30 church Street, Waynesville NC. Friday Night Live - Now inside the Wine Bar for the winter. This week enjoy Chris Minick.  Nov 16 , 5:30 - 7:30 PM   WOW (Wine on Wednesday) - Wines for Thanksgiving Dinner.

Nov 12 at 1- 4 PM  Asheville Wine Market, 65 Biltmore Ave, Asheville NC. Free WIne Tasting: Join TJ Gardner for an informative tasting of four outstanding, and very affordable, hand-picked wine selections.  2010 Chamisal Unoaked Chardonnay; 2009 St Francis Chardonnay; 2007 St Francis "Red Splash".

Nov 11, 6 PM - 8 PM, at Divine Wine, 1011 Tunnel Road East Asheville NC . Friday Wine Tastings - complimentary tastes of special wines and beer, along with an assortment of hors d’oeuvres. Each week we celebrate with a different theme and a few surprises.

Nov 11,  4 PM - 7 PM LaBouteille, 10 N Trade St, Suite A Tyon NC - Complimentary Wine Tastings every Friday. The last Saturday of each month 3-5 pm is a 10 beers for $10 beer tasting. Bring a dish of food to share.

Nov 12-Dec 31  12 PM - 6 PM  RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC  - Mood SwingZ, Enjoy the music of this popular band,  playing everything from the old vocal jazz classics to the always popular beach tunes, to classic pop. 

Nov 12,  2 PM - 5 PM The Wine Guy, 555 Merimon Ave and 1200 Hendersonville Rd., Asheville NC. FREE Saturday tastings are a great way to sample new favorites in a casual setting. Every week we sample 4 to 6 new wines. Light hors d’ oeuvres will be served and all wines poured will be specially priced.

Nov 12, 12 PM - 5 PM at Vino Vino Wine Market, 178 Weaverville Rd., Asheville NC. Every Saturday anytime between 12:00 and 5:00pm enjoy a sampling of wines from around the world. A 10% discount on each of the wines we are featuring.

Nov 12 , 11 AM - 5 PM  PM at Falderal Winery, 131 3rd Ave, Hendersonville NC. Free tasting - Blue Ridge Humane Society Event from 10 AM - 2 PM  Donations suggested with all proceeds going to BRHS-   Regular Saturday wine Tasting from 11 AM - 5 PM.

Nov 9-13   South Creek Vineyard and Winery, 2240 South Creek Road, Nebo, NC. Pre-Thanksgiving Open House - Relax while you Taste 6 Premium Wines at our bar, and then select the wine for your Thanksgiving feast. Check out the 3-Pack Wine special for $49.50.

Tasting Rooms:

Biltmore Winery, located on the Biltmore Estate, Asheville NC. Daily tasting and tours with Estate admission. Special events and tastings throughout the year.

Old North State Winery, 308 North Main Street, Mount Airy NC. Hours of operation are: Monday-Wednesday 11am-6pm, Thursday-Saturday 11am-9pm, and Sunday 12pm-6pm. Sample wines and browse the gift shop featuring wine related and gourmet gift items.

RagApple Lassie, 3724 Ragapple Lassie Lane Boonville NC Tours are "on demand" noon to six PM daily. Tastings are available noon to six PM daily and include up to 11 varieties of wine.

Calaboose Cellars, 565 Aquone Road, Andrews NC. Tasting room summer hours: Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from Noon to 5:00. This week check out the "Warden's White".

Daily Tastings at Wedge Brewing Company, 125 B Roberts St. Asheville NC. Micro-brewery regular Tasting room hours: Monday - Thursday 4 PM - 10+ PM; Friday 3 PM - 10+ PM; Saturday and Sunday 2 PM - 10+ PM.

Daily Tastings at Greenman Brewery, 23 Buxton Ave., Asheville NC. The tasting room is open seven days a week at 4 o'clock, or maybe earlier

The Loons of Lake James Boat Tour

November 12 -  The Loons of Lake James Boat Tour Join Park Ranger Earl Weaver on a boat ride to search for the loons that frequent Lake James during the winter months. Discuss how they survive during their winter migration and how they use the resources at Lake James to help them through the winter.

Participation is limited and passengers must be age 7 and above. Please call the Park Office at (828) 584-7728 for program registration. Meet at the Paddy’s Creek Area office at 2 PM. Lake James is located in Nebo NC, just outside of Marion.

Get a link for Lake James Park and other
Marion area attractions, lodging and events HERE